Metal

Metal roofing has truly come full circle during the past century. A popular roofing material in the early 20th century, metal was replaced by cheaper materials such as asphalt shingles during the past several decades. However, metal is emerging once again as the premier roofing system for commercial buildings and homes.

Benefits of Durability:
A metal roof is far more durable than other varieties, and this is one of its greatest benefits. It does not warp, peel, or crack, and it is completely pest-resistant. It can withstand hurricane-force winds. Unlike an asphalt roof, when metal roofing has been properly installed it will also stand up to hail and ice. Snow melts and runs off instead of permeating the material, and metal never rots like other roofing products.

Weather Resistance Benefits: Metal roofs are one of the most durable and weather-resistant roofing materials on the market today, and have the highest UL ratings for fire, wind, and impact resistance. In most areas, metal roofs can be expected to last three or more times longer than a comparable asphalt shingle roof. Weather resistances include:

Wind Resistance

Impact Resistance

Freeze/Thaw Cycles

Fire Resistance

Ultraviolet (UV) Rays

Mold, Mildew, and Algae Resistance

Energy Efficiency Benefits: Americans spend about $40 billion annually to air-condition buildings --which equates to about one sixth of all electricity generated in this country. Studies conducted by the Cool Metal Roofing Coalition and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have shown that metal roofing with Energy Star-certified high reflectance paint systems can save a homeowner up to 40% on cooling costs when compared to typical asphalt shingles.

Weight Benefits:
Typical roofing material is heavy and can be hard on joists and beams, but a quality metallic roof is lightweight. Surprisingly, it can weigh 50% less than an asphalt shingle roof. Clay is even heavier than asphalt, and high-quality metallic roofing can weigh one-tenth of the amount of clay tiles. When looking for lighter-weight material, metal is clearly the best option.

Low-Maintenance Benefits:
Asphalt roof shingles can blow off one-by-one and rapidly deteriorate, but a quality metallic roof is virtually maintenance-free. The roof will no longer be a concern each time the wind blows, especially in open rural areas where shingles are most likely to come off. Unlike asphalt shingles, metallic roofing will not curl, crack, or come off during an ordinary windstorm. As previously mentioned, it can withstand very high winds.

Appearance Benefits:
Metal roofing is available in a wide array of designs, finishes, and colors, making it ideal for the most discriminating home or business owner. Whether you desire a contemporary, traditional, or old-fashioned look, you can find a metal roof that will bring out the best in your home or business. Take the time to choose the perfect style and color, since durability is one of the many benefits of this type of roofing.

Cost Benefits: Metal roofing is more expensive than asphalt shingles, but the roof will last considerably longer. When these factors are taken into consideration, metal in the long run usually is less expensive than asphalt, and will increase the value of your property.